Definition
Hammertoes are formed when a muscle imbalance causes the “knuckle” of the toe to become prominent on the top of the foot. Over time the deformity can become rigid and the toe will not straighten at all. This deformity can be hereditary, but is also caused by tight and high heeled shoes.
Signs and Symptoms
- Red, irritated, or blistered skin on the top of the toe
- Development of a corn that may or may not be painful
- If you have darker toned skin the area over the toe can become darker or lighter where it rubs on the shoe
Treatment
- Padding techniques to prevent the toe rubbing on the shoes
- Toe straightening devices that can be worn inside shoes
- Wearing shoes with a deeper rounded or square toebox to accommodate the deformity
- Custom molded orthotics to neutralize the muscle imbalances and slow the progression of the condition.
- Surgical correction is recommended when the toes become painful despite padding, orthotics and shoe changes.
Hammertoe Patient Reviews
“There was pain on the big toe and the cross over toe was annoying. The crew that worked with me were real super; real experts. In about one hour, it was over. I felt nothing during the procedure. The recuperation went well. I never had any pain, however the swelling began so with icing it nightly it finally calmed down. I now have no swelling whatsoever. All in all it was a “Job well done”.”
– Leonie Bowers
